Help needed on evaluating a resource
Ok, so wanted to throw this out there for those with experience with some resources. I have Beale's work A Commentary on the New Testament's Use of the Old. Recently I bought Beale's handbook on the NT use of the OT. It is dealing with the exegesis of the NT use of the OT, which is what was utilized when the Commentary was done.
So here is the question- do I really need the Handbook if I have the Commentary. I am not trained in the original languages. I am not a professional scholar. I am simply a student and lay leader who gets to teach SS on occassion. So would I be better served using that money on something else?
Thanks.
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I would be interested to hear the answer to this as well. I do not have either, but they are on my wishlist. I would like input regarding whether both are needed or whether one is sufficient.
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Michael S. said:
So here is the question- do I really need the Handbook if I have the Commentary. I am not trained in the original languages. I am not a professional scholar. I am simply a student and lay leader who gets to teach SS on occassion. So would I be better served using that money on something else?
Nobody 'needs' any book — part, perhaps, from the Bible.
But the Handbook is very different to the Commentary. The Handbook is a 'how-to'. Think of the handbook a fishing rod with an instruction manual, whereas the commentary is a large basket of tasty fish. In theory you don't need one if you have the other, but I quite enjoy munching on someone else's fish whilst trying to catch my own.
I think it's an excellent book, and use it as a set text on a course on Introduction to Biblical Theology, for first-year undergraduates. It requires no knowledge of the original languages, and is an intermediate level text. In the introduction it says, "The intended audience is serious-minded Christians, students, and pastors, with the hope that even scholars might benefit." If that's you, then I'm sure you'd benefit.
PS — I have a theory that every major issue where evangelicals disagree is because of differences in the way we understand how the OT and NT relate to one another. If I'm right, then this topic is vital, and Beale is an excellent guide.
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Well, Michael, since you're already reading it (and locking up), you're the best judge.
Given they're relatively inexpensive, having both is not too risky.
Obviously the commentary is a commentary, and one belonging in most peoples library. Well regarded.
The handbook is a different animal. It discusses the trickiness of moving from the Old to the New, and is also well regarded. I'm in Pseudo-Clement, who is also complained of the techniques 1,600 years ago.
"If myth is ideology in narrative form, then scholarship is myth with footnotes." B. Lincolm 1999.
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Too bad Beale is not included in the MM2017 bracket ☹️
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Mark, of course no person NEEDS any book save the Bible, that goes without saying [:)]
I appreciate the information on the Handbook (I have read almost the first 3 chapters), but since I have some books on Exegesis, and the Commentary NT use of OT, am trying to figure out if this is a good addition. To be honest, with the Commentary, I most likely would simply open it up to pull information, rather than doing the leg work spelled out in the Handbook. I am also reading my new Handbook of New Testament Exegesis by Blomberg and Markley. So, the question is lingering, how essential is Beale's Handbook in light of my other resources? I know I can only answer, but other's opinions and insights may help me think through the decision.
Thanks!
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Mark Barnes said:
I quite enjoy munching on someone else's fish whilst trying to catch my own.
[:)] [Y]
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Other handbooks give overall general information on methods of exegesis for studying the Bible. I guess, judging by the title, this one deals exclusively with how the NT uses the OT and that would make it a unique addition regardless of how many books on exegesis you own. I'd keep it. In fact, that handbook is on my "mental wishlist." Someday...someday (when it goes on sale for at least 25% off). 😁
DAL
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Mark Barnes said:
... I have a theory that every major issue where evangelicals disagree is because of differences in the way we understand how the OT and NT relate to one another...
Intriguing, Mark. I hope we see you elaborate on that theory in a future Logos or Vyrso format resource! author:Barnes
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